Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life Podcast

Former Forest Monk, Matthew Gindin, discusses the rise of Stoicism's popularity and its appeal to Buddhism enthusiasts. He explores the historical relationship between Stoicism and Buddhism, emphasizing the similarities in training the mind and taking responsibility. The podcast also delves into Spinoza's influence on Stoicism and the varying Buddhist perspectives on meat consumption. Additionally, it explores the connections between Greek and Indian philosophers, and provides techniques for managing afflicting thoughts and effective emotional coping strategies.

Ryan A. Bush, author of Designing the Mind, discusses his approach to self-improvement and the influence of Stoicism. They explore breaking the cycle of rumination and worry, recognizing core values and virtues for self-worth, and the role of metacognition in repairing the mind. They also introduce his new book, Become Who You Are, focusing on a new theory of well-being and the interconnection of self-worth, depression, and virtues.

Elliot Chung, a student at Phillips Academy Andover, interviewed me recently for his new Philosophy for the Modern Mind podcast, and we decided to share our conversation on this podcast as well. We talk in particular about how Stoicism could be of practical benefit to young people, and the challenges they face today. Thank you for reading Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life. This post is public so feel free to share it.Thank you for reading Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life at donaldrobertson.substack.com/subscribe

How to drink like a Roman emperor, if that emperor is Marcus Aurelius. In this episode I explore the relationship between Stoic philosophy and the Twelve Step Program of Alcoholics Anonymous, discussing how Stoicism can help those suffering from alcoholism, as well as their friends and families. I spot parallels between the Twelve Step advice and Stoic teachings, and give examples from the life of Marcus Aurelius. I talk about how his wayward brother, and co-emperor, Lucius Verus, was almost certainly an alcoholic. Also, Frank, retired NYPD police officer, shares his experience of combining Stoicism the Twelve Step Program.Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.The original article is available on Substack, titled How to Drink Like a Roman Emperor.Thank you for reading Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life at donaldrobertson.substack.com/subscribe

Marc J. Victor, an attorney and founder of the Live and Let Live movement, sheds light on the synergy between Stoicism and contemporary politics. He discusses the growing interest in Stoicism, addressing misconceptions that cloud its principles. The conversation delves into the essence of the Live and Let Live philosophy, emphasizing personal responsibility and ethical choices in society. Victor articulates how Stoicism can contribute to achieving global peace, urging a refined approach to collective governance and individual freedoms.

In this discussion, Robin Waterfield, a renowned British classicist and translator of Plato, dives into the life and philosophy of the iconic thinker. He outlines Plato’s enduring significance in modern times and debates the Socratic Problem—how much of Socrates can be separated from Plato's works. Waterfield also tackles the eclectic nature of Plato's Academy, the influence of Pythagoreanism, and how Plato would approach issues like social media today. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the existential question of suffering and purpose.

Michael Tremblay, co-founder of the Stoa Meditation app and a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, joins to discuss the intersection of Stoicism and martial arts. He shares how Stoic principles shape moral education and self-improvement. The conversation delves into athletic imagery used by Epictetus and the resilience found in grappling. Tremblay explains how martial arts training can complement Stoic practices and highlights the importance of ethical frameworks in personal growth. Mindfulness in combat sports is beautifully woven into this philosophical exploration.

Matthew Sharpe, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Deakin University and co-author of "Philosophy as a Way of Life," shares insights on the practicality of Stoicism. He discusses why Stoicism isn’t prominent in academia and connects it with modern psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy. The conversation explores the significance of emotions in perception and the value of philosophical inquiry in personal development. Sharpe also reflects on the intersection of Stoicism and the French Enlightenment, advocating for accessible philosophical discourse.

In this episode, I chat with J.W. Bertolotti host of the In Search of Wisdom podcast, and founder of the Perennial Leader Project. Josh was one of the speakers at our Stoicon-x Military event a few years ago. We’re both very active on Substack now, Josh at Perennial Meditations so I thought it would be a great opportunity to reconnect and chat about philosophy as a guide to life.Highlights* How Joshua got into philosophy* His journey as a podcaster speaking to people about the nature of wisdom * Stoicism and other philosophies* Desire and attachment in philosophy* Conceit, and skepticism as a way of life* How the Delphic maxims can teach us about philosophyLinks* Perennial Meditations Newsletter on Substack* In Search of Wisdom Podcast @in sear on Substack and on Spotify* Perennial Meditations Podcast* @JWBertolotti on Twitter* Perennial Leader Project website Get full access to Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life at donaldrobertson.substack.com/subscribe

This is the famous speech, which we’re told inspired Zeno, the founder of Stoicism, to embark on a life of philosophy. He came across it in Book Two of Xenophon’s Memorabilia Socratis, where Socrates is portrayed reciting a version of it, which he learned from the celebrated Sophist and orator, Prodicus. It’s an exhortation to philosophy, which uses the legend of Hercules as an allegory to illustrate the choice between a life of virtue and one of vice. This story was illustrated in our graphic novel, Verissimus: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius.Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Highlights* Introducing the speech* Hercules confronted by the choice between two paths in life* The temptations of Kakia or Vice, to a life of pleasure and idleness* The exhortation of Arete or Virtue, to temperance and endurance* The legacy of the speech and influence on Stoicism Get full access to Stoicism: Philosophy as a Way of Life at donaldrobertson.substack.com/subscribe